Recommended 5th-Wheel Hitch and Suspension Enhancement for 2011 Ford F-350 Cab and Chassis

Question:

5th wheel hitch and air bags. I have a 2011 F350 dually all stock and is equipped with B W flip over gooseneck Hitch what would be your suggestions? I am buying a 42 ft full-time RV Thanks

asked by: Gene K

Expert Reply:

I have a couple possible 5th-wheel trailer hitch options for your 2011 Ford F-350 Cab and Chassis.

Since you have a flat bed and it is already equipped with a B&W Gooseneck Hitch, you may be able to use the B&W Companion Flatbed Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter # BWRVK3050. This hitch has a weight capacity of 25,000 pounds and vertical load limit of 6250 pounds. The base of this 5th-wheel hitch measures 18 x 18 inches. This will work for your setup if you have an opening in your bed that measures 20 x 20 inches or if your gooseneck ball opening sits flush with the bed of your truck, so that the gooseneck ball can reach the base of the 5th-wheel adapter. The recessed opening cannot be more than 4 inches deep.

If you do not have the available space for the B&W Companion to mount or the gooseneck ball is not recessed, then I instead recommend the Reese Low-Profile 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30054. In order to use this, you will first have to remove the B&W Gooseneck Hitch you currently have installed. The Reese 5th-Wheel is specifically designed for cab-and-chassis-style trucks and will mount directly to the frame of your truck (no rails are needed). This has a weight capacity of 30,000 pounds and vertical load limit of 7,500 pounds.

Then for suspension enhancement to handle the added weight of your trailer, I recommend the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TREDOS1. This system has a 17,200 pound weight capacity and the rubber springs will sit above the rear axle of your F-350 to help stabilize and level your vehicle. I have attached a helpful article on the Timbren Suspension Enhancement Systems for you to look over.

expert reply by: Chris R